Mexico APIS clarification
Clarifying Mexico’s APIS requirements: What operators really need to know
Recent updates to Mexico’s Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) requirements have sparked confusion across the aviation community. Many operators have interpreted the changes as applying to all flights entering Mexico, including private, charter, and cargo operations. However, this is a misinterpretation of the published information.
What’s actually changing?
The updated APIS requirements that took effect September 17, 2025, stem from Article 17 of the Acuerdo APIS in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF). The update is focused on tightening procedures for transmitting passenger and crew data to Mexico’s immigration authority, the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).
Who is not affected?
Contrary to widespread belief, the revised APIS requirements do NOT apply to:
- Private flights
- Charter flights
- Cargo operations
This clarification comes directly from INM, which has confirmed that the new mandates are exclusive to scheduled commercial carriers. Private and non-scheduled operators should continue following existing protocols, which remain unchanged.
Why the confusion?
The misunderstanding likely stems from the broad language used in early summaries of the DOF publication. Without context, many assumed the rules applied universally to all inbound and outbound flights. Our regulatory experts have since stepped in to correct the record, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between scheduled and non-scheduled operations.
What should operators do?
If you're operating private, charter, or cargo flights to Mexico:
- No new APIS procedures are required under the September 2025 update
- Continue submitting APIS data as previously mandated
- Stay informed through official INM communications and trusted aviation compliance sources
